The Dyrt – find campgrounds for tents, RVs, cabins, glamping and more.
Open in App

Best Dispersed Camping near Fishtrap Lake

7 Reviews
CAMPER SUMMARY PRESENTED BYFord

Dispersed camping options around Fishtrap Lake, Kentucky are limited, with Paul Van Booven Wildlife Management Area being the closest designated area. This site offers drive-in access but lacks amenities such as drinking water, toilets, trash services, and fire rings. Camping restrictions apply, as fires are not permitted on the property.

For those willing to travel to neighboring Virginia, Hidden Valley WMA provides more developed dispersed camping approximately two hours east. While technically free, Virginia requires a $4 Access pass with camping authorization added to your account. The site features established camping areas with fire rings, bear bins, and porta-toilets. Reviews indicate peaceful lakeside camping with "plenty of dead wood for fires" and "trash cans available." One visitor noted that "the road up is a pretty harsh grade for 4 miles," potentially challenging for larger vehicles. Little Tumbling Creek in Virginia offers another alternative with creek-side primitive camping and basic toilet facilities, described in reviews as a "secluded campsite" with a "large clearing to set up a tent or tents."

Map showing campgrounds near Fishtrap Lake, KentuckyExplore the Map

Best Dispersed Sites Near Fishtrap Lake (3)

    1. Hidden Valley WMA

    4 Reviews
    Willis, VA
    43 miles
    Website

    "Dispersed camping free permit with Va wildlife, fishing, or use permit up to 14 days. Porta Jon available at campground and boat dock. Plenty of dead wood for fires. Trash cans available."

    "Easy to access in a vehicle several campers campsites available Lake is calm and clean for water recreation. Has the portable restroom and plenty of firewood."

    2. Little Tumbling Creek

    3 Reviews
    Saltville, VA
    48 miles
    Website

    "There are two private properties on the road, and you basically just follow it back until you get to this clearing. Pretty large clearing to set up a tent or tents."

    "Laurel bed lake at top is beautiful. Waterfalls on way up and good fishing along the way in tumbling creek. Flat field area for camping on way. Several spots by creek for van or tent camping."

    3. Paul Van Booven Wildlife Management Area

    Be the first to review!
    Hazard, KY
    46 miles
Show More
Showing results 1-3 of 3 campgrounds

2025 Detourist Giveaway

Presented byToyota Trucks

Review Campgrounds. Win Prizes.

Enter to Win

Fishtrap Lake Contest

Enter to Win

Recent Free Dispersed Camping Photos near Fishtrap Lake

3 Photos of 3 Fishtrap Lake Campgrounds

Dispersed Camping Reviews near Fishtrap Lake

7 Reviews of 3 Fishtrap Lake Campgrounds

  • Betsy W.
    Sep. 2, 2024

    Hidden Valley WMA

    Great peaceful place

    Dispersed camping free permit with Va wildlife, fishing, or use permit up to 14 days. Porta Jon available at campground and boat dock. Plenty of dead wood for fires. Trash cans available. Rocks for fire pits and no tables.

  • sThe Dyrt PRO User
    Apr. 27, 2025

    Little Tumbling Creek

    Secluded campsite by creek

    This is a small campsite that I believe is on hunting land. You pass a sign going in toward it that states as much. There are two private properties on the road, and you basically just follow it back until you get to this clearing. Pretty large clearing to set up a tent or tents. It is very secluded from people, but no tree line or anything to camp in. All in all it’s a nice site. Absolutely no verizon service a the site.

  • Betsy W.
    Sep. 2, 2024

    Little Tumbling Creek

    Beautiful and peaceful

    Laurel bed lake at top is beautiful. Waterfalls on way up and good fishing along the way in tumbling creek. Flat field area for camping on way. Several spots by creek for van or tent camping.

  • Kathleen B.The Dyrt PRO User
    Apr. 5, 2025

    Hidden Valley WMA

    Popular location

    Easy to access in a vehicle several campers campsites available Lake is calm and clean for water recreation. Has the portable restroom and plenty of firewood.

  • R
    Oct. 23, 2024

    Hidden Valley WMA

    Peaceful and Pretty

    This spot is very nice, close to the water’s edge (although no camping allowed lakeside). There’s quite a few rings, bear bins, and a porta-loo. We had the place to ourselves which was really great. Camping is free, technically. (you need to purchase an Access pass from Virginia Wildlife for 4 dollars online, and add a camping authorisation to your account). The road was clear of Hurricane damage and very easy to get to. Would stay again!

  • Zach C.
    May. 15, 2024

    Little Tumbling Creek

    Secluded Place

    Camp next to a quiet bumbling creek with beautiful scenery.

  • Zoey T.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jul. 30, 2025

    Hidden Valley WMA

    Private location - challanging hills

    The camp area is alright - 4 ish areas to pull up to and a few tent sites… pretty and quiet. Only downside is that the road up is a pretty harsh grade for 4 miles. Our short bus Skoolie had some troubles with it. There also are a few peculiar (methy) characters that come in and out of the parking lot at night. Outside of that pretty quiet cool fern filled Forrest and lake.

Guide to Fishtrap Lake

Dispersed camping near Fishtrap Lake in Kentucky offers a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in nature without the constraints of traditional campgrounds. Enjoy the freedom of setting up camp in serene locations while taking advantage of the beautiful landscapes.

Top Activities While Free Camping Near Fishtrap Lake

  • Fishing enthusiasts will appreciate the nearby Paul Van Booven Wildlife Management Area, where no permit is required, allowing for a hassle-free experience in a tranquil setting.

Scenic Attractions for Dispersed Campers

  • The stunning views at Little Tumbling Creek provide a picturesque backdrop for camping, with beautiful waterfalls and a peaceful creek that enhances the natural beauty of the area.

Tips for Free and Dispersed Camping Near Fishtrap Lake in Kentucky

  • When camping at Hidden Valley WMA, remember to purchase an Access pass from Virginia Wildlife for just $4, which allows you to enjoy the area while ensuring compliance with local regulations.

Frequently Asked Questions

Where can I find dispersed camping at Fishtrap Lake in Kentucky?

Fishtrap Lake offers dispersed camping opportunities at Paul Van Booven Wildlife Management Area, which is accessible via drive-in access. Look for designated dispersed camping areas around the lake, but be aware that camping directly lakeside is typically not permitted. For the best experience, scout locations during daylight hours and choose established sites with existing fire rings when possible.

What permits or regulations apply to dispersed camping at Fishtrap Lake?

At Hidden Valley WMA, dispersed camping requires purchasing a Virginia Wildlife Access pass or having a valid fishing or hunting license. Camping is limited to 14 consecutive days. Similar regulations likely apply at Fishtrap Lake, where you'll need appropriate Kentucky wildlife or recreation permits. Always check with Kentucky Department of Fish and Wildlife Resources before your trip for current regulations, as rules can change seasonally and may include fire restrictions during dry periods.

Are there any facilities or amenities for dispersed campers at Fishtrap Lake?

Dispersed camping at Fishtrap Lake likely offers minimal amenities, similar to Little Tumbling Creek where you'll find flat clearings for tents and vehicle camping alongside natural features like streams. Some dispersed areas may have basic fire rings made of rocks. Don't expect picnic tables, potable water, or electrical hookups. Bring everything you need, including water purification methods and waste disposal bags. Pack out all trash as facilities are typically limited to occasional porta-potties at main access points.

Keep Exploring

  2. View all Kentucky cities for camping